The Russian nation has reason enough to trust its rulers — have not all of them striven to do what’s best? Has not each of them been a true aggrandiser of the realm, and not just in name only? Pavel was a bit muddled in his soul, but he was still a man capable of sublime inspiration and grandiose plans. Alexander wished to achieve the very best for his people, and that which he was able to do must be valued in every aspect. Nikolai, a strict and consistent man, had a good understanding of the state and comprehended its greatness. During the French invasion, Tsar Alexander stated that he would rather become a monk than sign a peace treaty dishonourable to Russia, and gosudar Nikolai would rush joyfully into the embrace of death, if it were for the good of his empire and his homeland. O, you
